Queen Victoria Market traders have responded to comments Neil Mitchell made last week about being “ripped off” when he used to shop at the market.

During a discussion around the future of the market, Neil told Lord Mayor Sally Capp about his experience buying meat, only to end up getting the stock from out the back rather the best cuts on display.

“I often get ripped off at the market,” he said.

“The steak looks good, I’ll have two pieces of that and I get served from the back.

“I also made the point I haven’t been a regular for some time, and maybe things have changed.”

Peter Langtry, who runs the Polish deli, said some traders had taken umbrage with Neil’s comments.

“If you’re not happy, talk to the owner who is standing right in front of you,” he said.

“We have so many competitors now with Costco, Woolworths, Coles, Aldi we have to keep every customer we serve.”

Neil: “I want the market to thrive. That is an issue that used to be an issue, maybe it’s not anymore.”